Facts

Project details

Thought to be the most ambitious public sector partnership of its type in the UK.

Externally the building is a direct expression of the range of functions within, revealing the council chamber, the courts, the large glazed volume of the civic space and the linear office ‘bars’ as distinct architectural forms.

A new internal civic space at the main entrance acts as an arrival, reception, orientation and event place from which all the main functions and services in the building can be accessed.

The park-like qualities of the site improve access to the river, create new paths and cycle routes and a new civic square at the building entrance.

Rooftop lanterns act as a visual marker for the centre which is otherwise screened from the town by the trees lining the banks of the river.

The West Lothian Civic Centre is leading the way in delivering effective and efficient public services

Peter Johnston, Leader West Lothian Council

Brief

new centre bringing previously dispersed services under one roof including council departments, courts and police

Results

prototype public building for delivering more joined–up services to the community